Nielsen to bring in new head of IR

Kate Vanek is set to head up three-strong IR team at leading market research firm Nielsen, which studies consumers in more than 100 counties across the globe. She will take up the position on July 8, reporting to CFO Brian West.

Vanek will take over responsibility for investor relations on a global scale, says the NYSE-listed firm, ‘including all initiatives related to communicating the company’s strategy, growth prospects and financial performance to investors and analysts’.

A Columbia Business School and University of Richmond graduate, Vanek has been with Stanley Black & Decker since 2008. She’s been managing both IR and government relations since 2009 so the merger of The Stanley Works and Black & Decker, completed in 2010, took place during her time there.

Vanek was named to the 2011 and 2012 <i>Institutional Investor</i> All-America Executive Teams – Best Investor Relations Professional, according to a press release from Nielsen.

‘Kate brings an extensive background and a proven track record as a recognized investor relations professional,’ said West, in the statement. ‘We look forward to her leadership as we continue to strengthen our relationships with the financial community and work to enhance value for our shareholders.’

Vanek replaces Liz Zale, who served as senior vice president of IR at Nielsen, from the company’s IPO in 2011 until May 1, 2013, when she joined S&P 100 firm Simon Property Group in a new position overseeing corporate affairs, communications and IR.